Can we replace potatoes by turnips?

It is said that potato can replace turnip in the diet with fewer calories. Have they really the same nutritional properties?

Short answer

The turnip has four times less calories than the potato and provides generally equivalent nutrients.
It contains more fiber but less potassium. You could completely replace potatoes with turnips. But they are easier to cook and offers more varied recipes!

Long answer

Turnip

For every 100 grams, boiled.

Calories: 20 kcal.

Protein: 1 g.

Fat: 0.1 g.

Carbohydrates: 3 g.

Fiber: 2.5 g.

Calcium: 40 mg.

Potassium: 240 mg.

Phosphorus: 30 mg.

Magnesium: 12 mg.

Iron: 0.3 mg.

Zinc: 0.27 mg.

Vitamin B3: 0.5 mg.

B9: 0.016 mg.

Vitamin C: 20 mg.

Vitamin E: 0.03 mg.

Virtues and drawbacks of turnip

It has a protective effect against cancer (via indole) and contributes to a balanced diet. It has no drawback.

Potatoes

For every 100 grams, steamed.

Calories: 85 kcal.

Protein: 2 g.

Fat: 0.1.

Carbohydrates: 20 g.

Fiber: 1 g.

Potassium: 375 mg.

Magnesium: 18 mg.

Iron: 0.4 mg.

Zinc: 0.28 mg.

Vitamin B3: 1.2 mg.

Vitamin B6, 0.18 mg.

Vitamin B9: 0.01 mg.

Vitamin C: 13 mg.

Vitamin E: 0.1 mg.

Virtues and drawbacks of potato

This is one of the richest food in potassium, that prevents high blood pressure, kidney stones. Its virtues against cancer are estimated low.
Potatoes can become as quickly tranformed into sugar than simple sugars when the body is missing them, but it has a low glycemic index normally.
Fries are harmful as too rich in fats.

Conclusion

Potato is rich in potassium and vitamin E. Turnip contains more fiber, vitamin C. It can replace potato unless you have a great need for potassium.
But it is mostly much less energetic.

Food and health.
These page demonstrate the effects of diet on cancer, infarction, osteoporosis.